Does one side of the sole of your shoe wear out faster than the other? Do you frequently sprain your ankle? Do you have chronic heel, knee or back pain? If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may need orthotics.
Fallen arches and feet or knees that point inward or outward excessively are other signs that you could benefit from orthotics.
Orthotics are hard or soft orthopaedic devices that are inserted into shoes. They are designed to correct imbalances within the feet and improve weight dispersal, therefore easing any pain.
They are custom-made, following a biomechanical assessment, in which a podiatrist, chiropodist, physiotherapist or orthopaedic consultant takes detailed foot-to-leg and foot-to-ground measurements.
An exercise programme to improve the complaint and carefully chosen footwear are important parts of the treatment.
Rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes are two conditions that orthotics can be valuable in treating.
In the former, orthotics can prevent a certain amount of deformity by propping the foot up as degeneration occurs.
In the latter, orthotics can prevent foot ulcers by preventing overloading of the foot joints.
Children born with deformities of the feet may also benefit from orthotics.
A pair of orthotics will cost between £200 and £240, including a consultation fee. Tax relief is available for medically prescribed orthotics, and the principal health insurers offer some cover.
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